17. Review of Sendings-off

2008/09 Directives

The decision of the referee is final concerning matters of fact relating to the game. There are only two situations which give players an opportunity to have the punishment against them reviewed and possibly overturned, transferred or withdrawn, they are: 1. Mistaken Identity 2. Wrongful dismissal The match officials will NOT be included in the procedure for these reviews and as such Referees are reminded that they must not agree to a request from a club official or player to review video evidence, either in a match where they are officiating or as part of another clubs appeal review process. Clubs have been told that they must not approach Match Officials directly with regard to Misconduct reports. Such requests by the Club or correspondence from a Club with regard to misconduct reports must be reported to The Football Association. Charges of Misconduct based on video evidence As television coverage has increased in recent years, both in terms of the number of matches broadcast and the number of cameras at each match, so the available evidence on which The Football Association may act has increased. The more that television analyses a game, the greater the likelihood of such incidents being identified. Players and Officials must recognise that fact. At the same time, there is an increasing need to reinforce the position and authority of the Referee. The Football Association will take action under the Rules when video evidence confirms that a breach of the Rules has occurred. Video evidence is only one form of evidence and The Football Association will always consider other evidence brought to its attention as to a possible breach of Rules. The Football Association will only consider acting under the Rules in relation to an incident on the field of play where it is satisfied that the Match Officials did not see a matter. Referees are to report to The Football Association all other matters for it to act under its Rules. Examples of the type of incidents (but not exclusive to) which will be subject to action are:-

• Mass confrontation
• Incidents such as attempting to Kick or Strike,
• Kicking or Striking another player,
• Insulting or abusive gestures to Match Officials or supporters,
• Spitting or similar unseemly behaviour directed at an opponent or any other person,
• Head to Head Butting,
• Attempting Head to Head Butt and
• Butting other parts of the body

Reconsideration of a decision If, after cautioning or dismissing a player, the referee subsequently believes that the decision may have been in error he is to report the relevant facts to The Football Association in his post-match report indicating he intends to review the decision. Such consideration should only be given following the post-match de-briefing with match colleagues, or a realisation that he was incorrect in Law when compiling his report and where he has indicated that he intends to review the decision confirmation must be made to The Football Association by fax number 0207 287 5182 or email: Disciplinary@TheFA.com within 24 hrs following the reporting deadline. He should give reasons and confirm that no pressure had been brought to bear and that the amendment to the report has been made on his own volition following full consideration of all the facts.

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